Slow Cooker Tender Carnitas (Printable Version)
Pork shoulder slow cooked with citrus and spices, finished crispy for a flavorful, tender dish.
# Ingredients Required:
→ Pork and Marinade
01 -
1.8 kg boneless pork shoulder roast, excess fat trimmed, cut into 7.5 cm chunks
02 -
240 ml Mexican beer (Pilsner or lager)
03 -
120 ml fresh orange juice
04 -
60 ml fresh lime juice
05 -
5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
06 -
2 teaspoons salt
07 -
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
08 -
2 teaspoons chili powder
09 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
10 -
1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
→ Garnish (optional)
12 -
Chopped fresh cilantro
→ Serving Suggestions
13 -
Steamed rice
14 -
Warm corn tortillas
15 -
Pico de gallo
16 -
Chopped onions
17 -
Chopped cilantro
18 -
Salsa
19 -
Crumbled Queso Fresco
20 -
Lime wedges
# Guide to Cooking:
01 -
Place the pork chunks into the slow cooker. In a separate container, combine the beer, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, chili powder, onion powder, oregano, and cumin. Pour this mixture evenly over the pork.
02 -
Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
03 -
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it finely using two forks.
04 -
Line two baking sheets with aluminum foil and preheat the oven broiler, positioning the rack approximately 15 cm from the heat source.
05 -
Transfer the shredded pork to the baking sheets using a slotted spoon, leaving the cooking liquid behind. Spread the pork evenly and drizzle 30 to 45 ml of the reserved cooking liquid over the meat. Broil one baking sheet at a time until the edges begin to crisp and brown, about 2 to 4 minutes per side, flipping carefully to broil the other side. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
06 -
Optionally skim excess fat from the cooking juices and drizzle some over the crispy pork before garnishing with chopped cilantro. Serve alongside rice, tortillas, pico de gallo, and preferred toppings or assemble into tacos or burritos.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For best results, monitor the pork during broiling to prevent overcooking. Skimming fat from the cooking liquid enhances flavor without excess grease.